The net has been abuzz regarding a new app that shocked many people with its recent appearance on, and subsequent disappearance from, the App Store.

Apple, which had previously rejected other app submissions involving things like bikini models and violent content for being too offensive, approved an app called "Baby Shaker" from Sikalosoft, in which the iPhone (or iPod touch) would display a picture of a baby and make loud crying noises, until the user shook the device vigorously enough to kill the baby. Whoops.

Following an outcry from child advocacy groups, other web sites, and pretty much everyone else with a conscience who saw the program, Apple pulled the app. However, Apple refused to comment on how or why the app was approved.

Apple's mistake casts a bit of a dark shadow over the App Store, at a time when it is within 1 million apps of achieving the billion-app milestone, especially since they have remained tight-lipped about the matter rather than being apologetic.

Apple spokesperson Natalie Kerris has since stated that "We sincerely apologize for this mistake," acknowledging that the game was "deeply offensive" and should not have been approved.

Meanwhile, the billion app countdown contest has ended. Sources indicate that the one billionth app, Bump created by Bump Technologies, was downloaded by Connor Mulcahey, age 13, of Weston, CT. Connor will receive a $10,000 iTunes(R) gift card, an iPod(R) touch, a Time Capsule(R) and a MacBook(R) Pro.